Anthony Joshua: New Trainer, New Animal, New Legend?
Anthony Joshua is a transformed fighter under Ben Davison, according to former world champion Paulie Malignaggi. Joshua has recorded two dominant KO wins over Otto Wallin and Francis Ngannou since partnering with Davison, showcasing a resurgence of power and aggression lost in previous bouts.
Malignaggi stated, "AJ with Ben Davison is a different character, a different animal. I like what I’m seeing with Anthony Joshua." This improvement comes after back-to-back defeats against Oleksandr Usyk and a labored win over Jermaine Franklin.
Joshua's first encounter with Usyk under long-time coach Rob McCracken resulted in a points loss. Seeking improvement, Joshua then teamed up with Robert Garcia for the rematch but fell to a split-decision defeat. His subsequent partnership with Derrick James yielded a less-than-impressive win over Franklin, followed by a victory over Robert Helenius.
Since Davison took over in December last year, Joshua, now 35, has secured an IBF heavyweight world title shot against Daniel Dubois on September 21. He enters the contest as the favorite and eyes a potential showdown with the winner of Usyk’s rematch with Tyson Fury, set for December 21.
Carl Froch believes Joshua’s current form could see him defeat Fury if they meet in 2025. “Timing-wise, Anthony Joshua will probably knock out Tyson Fury just cause of where they are in their careers. But what a great fight," Froch commented.
Froch, who previously favored Fury, now sees Joshua’s momentum and renewed confidence as key factors. “Joshua is coming off three or four wins. He’s an athlete, looks like a machine, and takes the sport very seriously," Froch added.
Joshua’s journey under Davison has reignited hopes of undisputed glory, with his potential bout against Fury marking a defining moment in his career.
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